Support for Pilgrim Hospital

Councillors' concerns about the future of the Pilgrim Hospital are to be sent to the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust.

Councillors on Monday agreed to Cllr Stephen Woodliffe's proposal to express opposition to any relocation of accident and emergency, maternity services and other acute services from the Pilgrim. He said patient safety would be put at risk and confidence in the Pilgrim would be undermined.

He said it could be the start of a slippery slope. Staff, including consultants, would not want to come to the Pilgrim if there was no career path for them.

Cllr Woodliffe said he was conscious of serious financial issues within the health service, but said there was a need for flexibility.

Cllr Paul Kenny said he would like to see a seminar arranged with the health service to discuss training issues with a view to putting measures in place to encourage doctors and nurses to want to come to Boston.